Pensioner's 'lifeline' bus service in Northamptonshire makes 'difficult' decision to close down due to rising costs and 'uncertainty'

Ability Community Transport was set up in 2018 as a not-for-profit community interest company with the aim of reducing social isolation and loneliness by helping pensioners get around Banbury, Brackley, Northampton and Towcester. Its founder is former Conservative councillor Nigel Hinch.

However, it announced on on Friday March 13, that it has been forced to closed its operations, citing multiple reasons.

An Ability spokeswoman said: “All good things must come to an end. After eight wonderful years of serving our community, it is with great sadness that we must share the news that ABILITY Bus Services will be closing.

“This has been a very difficult decision. We are incredibly proud of the service we have provided and the role our buses have played in helping people stay connected - whether travelling to the shops, appointments, or visiting family and friends.

“Sadly, a number of challenges mean we are no longer able to continue operating in a sustainable way. These include:

• Reduced reimbursement from local authorities for certain concessionary bus pass journeys
• Uncertainty around council grant funding from April 2026 and no agreement for longer-term support
• Rising operating costs, including vehicle maintenance, fuel, insurance and the recent increase in Employer National Insurance contributions
• The loss of our office and parking facilities, with no suitable alternative available locally

“We understand that this news will come as a shock and may be worrying for many people who rely on our services. Please read the attached document for details of our service closure dates and further information.

“Our office team will continue to support passengers while services remain operational. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us on 01327 604123. The office will remain open until Monday 13th April 2026.

“This is a very emotional time for our staff, who have worked so hard over the years to provide a friendly and reliable service. We kindly ask everyone to continue showing them the same kindness and respect that has always meant so much to us.

“To everyone who has travelled with us and supported us - thank you. It has been a genuine privilege to serve this community, and we will always be proud of what we have achieved together.

“With heartfelt thanks from everyone at ABILITY Bus Services.”

In response, Conservative MP Sarah Bool has called on WNC for an urgent meeting with the council’s chief executive Martin Henry and the Reform councillor in charge of transport, Richard Butler.

Ms Bool wrote: “The reasons cited by the operator for this closure are deeply concerning. They have highlighted a lack of certainty regarding Council grant funding from April 2026, alongside challenges related to concessionary reimbursement rates, rising operating costs and the loss of local operational facilities. Given that these services are fundamental to the council's commitment to rural connectivity, the prospect of their withdrawal is simply not an option for our residents.”

Councillor Richard Butler, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “We have been told by Ability CIC that the organisation has decided to withdraw services from April.

“We understand this news may be worrying for some of our residents who use these services and we are currently reviewing any impact Ability’s decision may have.

“The rules around reimbursement are set nationally by the Government and have not changed and we continue to apply them consistently. The Council will soon begin its annual grant funding round, and Ability CIC would be able to apply as it has in previous years.

“At this stage, it would be too early to comment on any future service arrangements.”